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Selling a home

Agents, valuations and preparing a sale.

Decision guides

How to choose · Selling a home

How to choose an estate agent or listing agent to sell your home

Choose an agent by evidence of local sales in your type of property, a pricing recommendation backed by comparable sales rather than flattery, a clear marketing plan, honest communication style and transparent contract terms. Meet several agents, ask how they reached their valuation, and read the agreement on duration, exclusivity and fees before signing. Practices and regulation differ by country and region.

Cost factors · Selling a home

What it costs to sell a home and how to prepare

Selling costs typically include agent fees, legal or conveyancing charges, transfer or sales taxes where applicable, mortgage repayment and early repayment charges, certificates or inspections, preparation and staging, moving, and possible capital gains tax. Which apply depends on country, state and your circumstances. Build a net proceeds estimate early and spend on preparation that improves presentation or removes obvious buyer objections, not on cosmetic projects with unclear return.

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